Smurfit Kappa Stalybridge are delighted to announce that the current two year sponsorship of Stalybridge Celtic FC Academy by Smurfit Kappa has been extended by a further three years to June 2021.

The academy is focused on developing youth from the local community and working together with local partners such as Tameside College, to ensure the young players have a route to higher education while progressing with their football career. The coaches and trainers work collaboratively with the college to ensure all learners can achieve their potential both on and off the pitch.

Lynne Case, General Manager of Smurfit Kappa said:
"We believe passionately as a Management Team in the importance of supporting our local club and helping the Academy players realise their dreams. Smurfit Kappa Stalybridge feels extremely proud to be associated with the players and the club and we wish you all the very best of luck for the coming seasons!"

The academy is a great opportunity for young, talented football players to progress with their football abilities without compromising their education.

Ian Milligan, Academy Chairman commented:
"To see the Smurfit Kappa and Celtic Academy partnership boldly promoted on the Mottram Road stand is an exciting development. It is also timely with five Academy players making their first team debuts last season and with new manager Simon Haworth, actively encouraging our Academy players to challenge for a first team place. This sponsorship allows us to further support and progress our players - everyone at Stalybridge Celtic FC really appreciates the support from Smurfit Kappa.

"It is great news that the current two year sponsorship of Stalybridge Celtic FC Academy by Smurfit Kappa has been extended a further three years to June 2021. This means that the Smurfit Kappa name will continue its presence on the Academy shirts for the next three seasons. The partnership is further enhanced by Smurfit Kappa taking over sponsorship of the Mottram Road stand at Bower Fold, again on a three year term.

"This is tremendous backing from Smurfit Kappa. It endorses the progress made this last two years by Dave Sullivan and his Academy coaching team alongside Tameside College, our education partner. And is reflected by a record number of university applicants from the Academy this summer. A three year commitment also demonstrates buy – in by Smurfit Kappa senior management to our Academy ambitions and helps us plan on a longer term basis."

For any players interested in joining the Stalybridge Celtic FC Academy and following in the footsteps of Darius Osei and Aidan Winterbottom, two of the recent success stories, contact the Academy Head, Dave Sullivan at academy@stalybridgeceltic.co.uk or 07876 192905. He is currently recruiting 16 to 18 year olds for September 2018.

All people entering Bower Fold & its environs are reminded of their obligations with regard to foul & abusive language & comments & remarks that could be construed as offensive, discriminatory & or racist to any group or creed.